[Normal radiographic anatomy of thoracic structures: analysis of 316 lateral chest radiographs].

Purpose: To study the frequency of visualization and characteristics of normal thoracic structures on lateral chest radiographs in the Japanese population.

Materials and methods: We reviewed 316 lateral chest radiographs of men and women ranging in age from 20 to 90 years. The frequency of visualization and configuration of structures including major, minor, superior and inferior accessory fissures, and orifices of the right and left upper lobe bronchi were reviewed.

Results: On lateral chest radiographs, major fissure and minor fissure were visualized in 99.4% and 87.3%, respectively. Superior accessory fissure and inferior accessory fissure were visualized in 1.9% and 9.5%, respectively. Orifices of the right and left upper bronchi were seen in 92.4% and 98.4%, respectively.

Conclusion: Frequency of visualization and characteristics of various normal anatomic structures on lateral chest radiographs in the Japanese population differ from those reported previously from the West. Familiarity with these normal thoracic structures and variations is important for daily image interpretation.